title: Autism: definition, neurobiology, screening, diagnosis.
abstract: Autism (ie, the autism spectrum disorders) is now recognized in 1 in 150 children. This article highlights the definition, neurobiology, screening, and diagnosis of autism. The genetics, immunology, imaging, and neurophysiology of autism are reviewed, with particular emphasis on areas that impact pediatricians. Early recognition of the social deficits that characterize autism is key to maximizing the potential of these children.
authors.affiliation: Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA. rapin@aecom.yu.edu
authors.forename: Isabelle
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Rapin
authors.forename: Roberto F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Tuchman
mesh_terms: D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant